A painter comes of age

Najma Akhter's solo exhibition at Zainul Gallery

As a student of the Oriental Department, Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University, Najma Akhter was fascinated with Bengali women in their many moods, human relationships and nature as subjects. She did many paintings in the oriental style -- featuring Bengali women in traditional avatar. At one stage, Akhter realised that the confines of oriental art were not suitable for her modern sensibilities. She made a transition from oriental to abstract art in 2003. This was a new world of lines, colours, forms and texture -- an imaginative and cerebral realm. Initially, Akhter was a little confused about her paintings where colours and forms were the main elements. However, when she exhibited her paintings for the first time at a gallery in Dhaka, critics and art enthusiasts appreciated the works.
Najma Akhter's latest solo exhibition, titled “Escaping Shadows”, is now on at Zainul Gallery, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka.
The painter has been seemingly inspired by nature. She understands nature and its varied elements appear to her in a vibrant way. Her works appear as pieces of land where she cultivates her desires, bliss and yearning.
One could be easily drawn to Akhter's works, as the mood is relaxed and uncluttered. Figures appear in a number of her paintings, but they do so in a sublime manner. It is obvious that the painter has experimented with layers of colours and tonality. Akhter seems to be quite conscious about the use of space in her paintings. The colours involved are blue, crimson, yellow, emerald green and black.
The artist says: “I can best express myself in paintings, especially through the modes of semi-abstract and pure abstract. I choose my subjects from the surroundings -- it could be any experience.”
At present, the painter likes to work in acrylic, in which she finds a taste of serenity. The medium helps her work promptly and she can meticulously shape her forms and compositions.
Considering the works at the current exhibition, it's apparent that the painter likes to play with texture. She feels that it has happened unintentionally. Her works look mature. Another aspect of Akhter's work is her demonstration of the aesthetic elements.
The exhibition will continue till October 25.

Stay updated on the go with The Daily Star News App. Click here to download it for your device.